Buying a Home with a Pool: Key Things Every Buyer Should Know
Buying a Home with a Pool in Charleston: Costs, Inspections & Resale Value
Buying a Home with a Pool? Here's What You Need to Know
Pools can be a major draw when buying a home—especially in warm places like Charleston. They offer fun, relaxation, curb appeal, and potentially higher resale value. But they also come with responsibilities, costs, and risks. As a realtor, I’ve seen how being well-prepared up front can save buyers from headaches (and hidden bills) later. Below are key things to check out, budget for, and think through.
What to Look for During the Walkthrough
- Visual Issues
- Loose tiles, ugly or missing grout.
- Green or discolored water (could signal algae or filtration problems).
- Low water level—may mean leaks.
- Cracks in steps, walls, floor. Hairline “spider” cracks may be cosmetic. But cracks that are wide enough to fit a penny? Possibly structural.
- Equipment Inspection
- Ask the seller to power everything up—pump, filtration, heater if present—and listen for weird sounds. Loud, high-pitched noises or anything that seems to struggle can signal failing motors or filters.
- Look closely at the coping joint (the seam between the pool’s coping and deck). If it’s not sealed properly, water can get behind, causing damage.
- Closed Pools / Off-Season
- If the pool is covered or not in use, request current photos or past summer photos showing usage. Ask the seller to state whether all equipment has been running well.
- Inspection by a Specialist
- A regular home inspection usually doesn’t include the pool. You’ll likely want a dedicated pool inspection to assess shell, deck, structure, plumbing, and more. Average cost runs around $125-$250.
Budgeting for Ongoing Maintenance
- Maintenance can run $1,000 to $4,000 annually, depending on pool size, usage, climate, and whether you hire help or do it yourself.
- Key cost areas include chemicals, water, electricity, repairs, and periodic cleaning.
- Electrical work should always be left to a pro. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix.
- Draining the pool isn’t trivial: if done improperly, hydrostatic pressure can actually lift the pool out of the ground.
Resale Value: Does a Pool Pay Off?
Yes—but with caveats.
- Homes with pools have sold for significant premiums in national studies, sometimes over 50% higher than homes without pools. Buyers clearly value pools, especially when they’re well maintained.
- That said, pool features must be in good condition, attractive, and reasonably up-to-date to preserve or increase value. Poor or neglected pools can quickly become a liability at resale.
Upgrades That Add Value
If you’re buying a home with a pool, or considering investing in one, these are features that tend to boost enjoyment and resale value:
- Automation (smart controls for filtration, cleaning, chemical balance)
- Variable speed pumps for energy efficiency
- Water features (waterfalls, bubblers, etc.)
- Sun shelves or tanning ledges
- Darker, modern finishes for aesthetics and reduced glare
Bottom Line
A pool can be a wonderful addition to your home—especially here in Charleston. But it’s not just about the look and ambiance. Inspections, ongoing costs, equipment condition, maintenance, and thoughtful upgrades all matter. A well-maintained pool can increase enjoyment now and value later; a neglected one can be an unexpected drain (pun intended).
✅ Your Next Steps If You’re Considering a Pool Home
Buying a home with a pool is exciting—but it’s also a big decision. The right property should bring you enjoyment now and strong resale value later.
If you’re thinking about purchasing a Charleston home with a pool, let’s talk. I’ll help you compare properties, review maintenance considerations, and make sure you’re getting the full picture before you buy.
📞 Call, text, or email me today to get started on finding your Charleston dream home with (or without) a pool.
